Revelation 9
Revelation 9 continues with the fifth and sixth trumpets. These trumpets are a study in contrast.
Trumpet 5 and the First Woe
Here we go with the beasties. What are they? Who are they? Should we be looking for particular photos and descriptions online, in news magazines and on TV?
Wrong approach! First, notice who is in charge. God is. The events of Trumpet 5, perpetrated by Satan, are limited in scope and effect by God. The suffering caused lasts but a short time and no one is allowed to be killed by it. In addition, God’s people are not touched by it at all.
The fact that the situation is described twice in slightly different way adds emphasis to what is identified as the First Woe. Remember, though, that Satan is revealed as the source of all this suffering. God is not to blame.
Trumpet 6
Look back to Revelation 7. Four angels were told not to harm the earth, sea or trees until God’s bond-servants had been sealed. In Verse 14 of this chapter, those angels are released. God’s bond-servants have been sealed. They are completely safe. They belong to Jesus, and no one can take them out of his hand.
These angels were released to kill 1/3 of mankind! Think about that for a minute or two. They are the agents of God’s wrath which is being poured out on the earth. Their proxies are the two hundred million horsemen.
Notice, though, that, besides impressive breastplates, there is almost no attention paid to the armies themselves. Instead, it is the horses that spew fire, smoke and brimstone out of their mouths. God is making it very clear that he is in charge. He decides how judgment is carried out.
Verses 20 and 21 are sad and chilling at the same time. The rest of the world “did not repent.” Apparently, repentance still is possible, but they refuse.
Revelation for You
What clues to God’s incredible mercy are in this chapter?
How can you be certain that you will not face these judgments?
